1. What is your current role at CMRI?

I’m a clinical research nurse coordinator in the Neurology department at Children’s Mercy. My role allows me to combine my nursing background with my interest in clinical research while working with children and families who are dealing with complex neurological and rare diseases.

A big part of my job is coordinating clinical research visits and making sure everything required by the study is completed correctly and safely. I work closely with our physicians, research team, families, sponsors and monitors. My work varies, so some days I'm focused on participant visits and assessments, while others I'm working on study documentation, data, laboratory specimens, protocol questions or communicating with the sponsor.

One of the things I enjoy most about my role is getting to know the families. Research can be a long journey for a child and their caregivers, and I appreciate being someone they can communicate with and depend on throughout that process. 

2. What drew you to a career at CMRI?

I had been working in research for a couple of years before I came to Children’s Mercy. During that time, I realized how much I enjoyed being part of something that could potentially change the way patients are treated and cared for.

When the opportunity to join Children’s Mercy came along, I was excited about the chance to continue growing in research while working in a pediatric environment. Children’s Mercy gave me the opportunity to work with children and families affected by complex neurological and rare diseases, and that made the work even more meaningful to me.

I decided to stay in research because I enjoy the combination of nursing, science, patient care and learning. There is always something new to learn in research, and I like that my role allows me to continue asking questions and developing professionally while being involved in work that may have an impact on future patients.

3. What are your research/career goals?

My current goal is to continue growing as a clinical research professional. I want to continue building my knowledge of clinical trial operations, research regulations, participant safety, data quality and the overall drug development process. I also want to continue learning from the people around me and take advantage of opportunities to participate in different types of research.

Professionally, I want to continue advancing my education and credentials. I am interested in pursuing additional research certifications and continuing my nursing education so that I can keep expanding the opportunities available to me within health care and clinical research.

4. What is your favorite thing about working at CMRI?

My favorite thing about working at Children’s Mercy is knowing that the work I do has a purpose. Being able to support children and families while contributing to research that can improve their lives is very rewarding. I also appreciate the teamwork, compassion and dedication I see from my colleagues every day.

5. What is on your bucket list?

One of the biggest things on my bucket list is to continue exploring the world by traveling more, experiencing different cultures and spending quality time and creating meaningful memories with the people I love. I would also like to continue growing professionally, further my education in healthcare and make an even greater impact through my work.